Keep Displaying Love-It Builds Up - OUR BROTHERS NEED OUR LOVE

One means by which Jehovah builds us up in love is the Christian congregation.  Individually, we can reciprocate his love by loving and building up our spiritual brothers and sisters not only spiritually but also emotionally.  (1 John 4:19-21)  The apostle Paul urged Christians:  "Keep on encouraging one another and building one another up, just as you are in fact doing."  (1 Thessalonians 5:11)  Yes, all in the congregation-not just elders-can imitate Jehovah and Jesus in comforting and building up the brothers and sisters. -Read Romans 15:1, 2. 

Some in the congregation who have emotional disorders may need professional help and medication.  (Luke 5:31) Elders and others in the congregation modestly recognized that they are not trained mental-health-care professionals. However, they and others in the congregation have a vital role to play-to "speak consolingly to those who are depressed, support the weak, be patient toward all."  (1 Thessalonians 5:14)  All Christians need to display loving empathy and patience, speaking consolingly in order to build up discouraged ones. Are you a source of comfort and encouragement?  Knowing how to provide such help can render your efforts more effective.

How can our love build up those who experience painful emotions?  "At times I have suicidal thoughts, says one Christian sister in Europe.  "But I have a good support system.  The congregation I belong to has saved my life.  The brothers and sisters are always very encouraging and loving. Although only a few know that I suffer from depression, the congregation is always there for me. One married couple are like my spiritual parents.  They take good care of me, and they are there fore me literally 24 hours a day."  True, not everyone can assist to the same degree.  But our genuine expressions of support can make a big difference to those who are suffering from emotional pain.

Next time: Keep Displaying Love-It Builds Up-HOW TO BUILD OTHERS UP IN LOVE

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